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15 of the best places to buy a vacation home

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Pacaso
April 22, 2026
An iconic panoramic view of Paris with the Eiffel Tower, bathed in sunset hues, symbolizing global luxury and the international lifestyle of the modern homeowner. The warm, aspirational cityscape captures the allure of living and thriving in sought-after world cities.
Finding the best places to buy a vacation home comes down to matching the location to your lifestyle, favorite hobbies and climate preferences. Consider how you want to spend your free time, who will be traveling with you and how the market will look in five to ten years. 
To help you narrow down the choices, we divided the top 15 locations into three distinct groups. You can choose from sunny beach destinations, explore quiet nature-filled destinations or exciting international destinations. 

Best places to buy a vacation home

1. Miami, Florida

  • Vacation home category: Beach destination
  • Signature day: Biscayne Bay boating, museum visits in the Design District and dinner on the water 
  • Owner advantage: Nonstop flights, beach access and year-round outdoor living 
  • When to be here: Winter for peak season, early summer for calmer shores 
  • Neighborhood focus: Waterfront enclaves from Miami Beach to Fort Lauderdale 
Miami is one of the best places to buy a vacation home in Florida because of its unique blend of tropical relaxation and high-end urban energy. South Florida has warm weather year-round, headline-making dining and art, and swift access to Latin America and Europe. If you’re looking for a luxury beach house, Pacaso has numerous options.  For those seeking classic Miami Beach elegance, Casa Estrada has stunning architecture and prime proximity to the water.If island living is more your speed, the Venetian property on Di Lido Terrace has a private, waterfront escape just minutes from the city. Las Olas, in nearby Fort Lauderdale, pairs a private-dock lifestyle with a window-walled great room and an expansive outdoor deck for easy entertaining after a day on the water.

2. Hilton Head, South Carolina 

  • Vacation home category: Beach destination
  • Signature day: Morning tee time on a championship golf course, biking along the hard-packed sand and a lowcountry seafood dinner
  • Owner advantage: Miles of wide beaches, access to premier golf and tennis and a family-friendly atmosphere
  • When to be here: Spring and fall for ideal outdoor weather and summer for classic beach days
  • Neighborhood focus: Sea Pines resort area and quiet oceanfront communities
Hilton Head Island is one of the best places to buy a vacation home for those who want a mix of active outdoor living and relaxed coastal charm. The area has warm weather year-round, making it easy to enjoy the famous golf courses and miles of nature trails. This is also one of the best East Coast beach towns for buyers seeking a long-term retreat and good market growth.Pacaso has properties that capture the everyday essence of Lowcountry living. For example, homes like the Bald Eagle estate provide spacious layouts for family gatherings just steps from the sand. If your focus is on the water, the Seaside property has a direct, private connection to the coast.For a classic island experience, the Whistling Swan home blends comfortable architecture with the natural surroundings of South Carolina. 

3. San Diego, California

  • Vacation home category: Beach destination
  • Signature day: Morning surf at La Jolla Shores, lunch in Little Italy and a walk at Sunset Cliffs 
  • Owner advantage: Near-perfect weather year-round, high quality of life and easy access to a major international airport 
  • When to be here: Late summer for the warmest ocean temperatures, or “Local’s Summer” in September for fewer crowds 
  • Neighborhood focus: The upscale cliffs of La Jolla and the lively, sun-drenched paths of Mission Bay
San Diego is a top contender for a second home because it has the most consistent weather in the United States. With temperatures hovering around 70 degrees nearly every day, you aren’t restricted to a single season of enjoyment. Whether you’re exploring the world-famous San Diego Zoo or hiking the trails at Torrey Pines, the outdoor lifestyle here is a year-round joy.The vacation rental market in San Diego remains incredibly strong due to the city’s massive appeal to both domestic and international travelers. Market conditions often involve high demand and limited coastal inventory, which helps support long-term property values. Pacaso properties in this region perfectly capture the Southern California experience. Pacific Shores and Westbourne place you right in the sought-after La Jolla area, ideal for upscale, relaxed coastal living. If you prefer a more energetic atmosphere, the Sail Bay property has immediate access to the water and active local boardwalks. For a distinct oceanfront experience, Marine Lair has stunning views and direct proximity to the crashing waves. 

4. Palm Springs, California

  • Vacation home category: Desert escape destination
  • Signature day: A morning hike through Indian Canyons, browsing mid-century modern boutiques downtown and lounging by the pool with a mountain view
  • Owner advantage: Iconic mid-century architecture, world-class golf and tennis and a lively arts and culture scene
  • When to be here: Winter and spring for perfect sunny days and cool nights, avoiding the intense summer heat
  • Neighborhood focus: Historic and stylish enclaves like the Movie Colony, Old Las Palmas and nearby La Quinta
Palm Springs is famous for its striking desert scenery, more than 300 days of sunshine a year and iconic mid-century modern architecture. Notable attractions like the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway and world-class golf courses serve up endless entertainment in this stunning oasis. The reliable winter weather makes it ideal for luxury buyers looking to escape the cold back home.The local real estate market remains highly desirable, with mid-century gems and modern estates holding strong value. Investing in a vacation property here means securing a slice of a legendary resort town that has captivated Hollywood stars and design enthusiasts for decades.Featured Pacaso homes like Palm Canyon and The Oasis capture that classic Palm Springs indoor-outdoor lifestyle, while Casa Del Sol down in La Quinta offers a tranquil desert retreat with sweeping mountain views. 

5. Scottsdale, Arizona

  • Vacation home category: Desert escape destinations
  • Signature day: A morning hike up Camelback Mountain, followed by a spa afternoon and a sunset dinner in Old Town 
  • Owner advantage: Over 300 days of sunshine, access to world-class golf and a highly stable luxury market 
  • When to be here: Spring for the Phoenix Open and MLB Spring Training, or late autumn for perfect patio weather 
  • Neighborhood focus: The quiet, elevated desert of Cave Creek or the sleek, central streets near the Scottsdale Waterfront 
Scottsdale is a premier sanctuary for those who crave a mix of outdoor adventure and high-end relaxation. It has a unique landscape that makes it one of the best places for second-home buyers who want to trade snow for saguaros. The desert climate gives you warm, dry days year-round, making it a good choice for anyone looking to escape grayer skies.Its local real estate market has a history of resilience, as the area attracts global golfers and luxury events. Scottsdale’s strict zoning laws preserve the rugged trails and natural beauty that make living here so distinct, ensuring your daily enjoyment of the landscape remains uninterrupted. Pasaso featured homes in the area showcase this diverse desert lifestyle perfectly. Desert Haven has an expansive outdoor living area in Cave Creek that overlooks the high desert mountains. Tulum Oasis gives you a modern, resort-style retreat with a private pool and sleek architecture. 

6. Aspen, Colorado

  • Vacation home category: Nature-filled destinations
  • Signature day: First tracks on Ajax, après in town and a chef’s table dinner
  • Owner advantage: Walk-to-town access and four-mountain variety through the season
  • When to be here: December to March for snow, July to September for hiking and festivals
  • Neighborhood focus: Core town for access, slopeside for ski-first mornings
Aspen balances powder days with gallery nights, a rare mix that keeps real estate demand consistently high. With one ultrawealthy resident for every 77 people, the town’s depth of amenities and community feels both intimate and dynamic. This unique combination of privacy, nature and dining makes Aspen one of the best places to invest in real estate for buyers seeking a premier mountain retreat.Properties here are designed to let you enjoy both winter snow and summer hiking seasons. At Pacaso’s Aspen Grove listing, you’re just minutes from downtown Aspen, with vaulted living spaces, expansive decks, and a rooftop hot tub perfect for mountain sunsets.For those wanting to be right in the center of everything, the Hallam property offers incredible access to downtown. Alternatively, Alpine Ridge provides a Snowmass slopeside experience designed for ski-first mornings and sweeping mountain views. 

7. Lake Tahoe, California

  • Vacation home category: Nature-filled destinations
  • Signature day: Skiing fresh powder in the morning, hiking scenic trails in the afternoon and enjoying dinner with lake views
  • Owner advantage: Year-round outdoor recreation, distinct four-season weather and a mix of vibrant towns and quiet alpine retreats
  • When to be here: Winter for world-class skiing and summer for boating, swimming and warm beach days
  • Neighborhood focus: Slopeside communities in Olympic Valley and private, forested enclaves in Truckee
Lake Tahoe is a good choice for those looking to buy a vacation home that has year-round appeal. The region features spectacular weather with deep winter snow for skiing at renowned resorts like Palisades Tahoe, followed by warm, sunny summers perfect for boating on the crystal-clear lake. Its local real estate market is resilient, driven by buyers who value both outdoor adventure and peaceful alpine living and featuring homes that harmonize with the stunning natural environment. Pacaso’s Sierra property in Truckee is a secluded, forested escape that feels miles away from the crowds while still being close to local amenities. Similarly, Pine Point has modern mountain architecture with expansive outdoor spaces for entertaining after a long day on the trails. If you want to be closer to the winter action, the Majestic home in Olympic Valley places you right near world-class slopes and resort dining. 

8. Jackson Hole, Wyoming

  • Vacation home category: Nature-filled destinations
  • Signature day: Skiing at the mountain resort, wildlife spotting in Grand Teton National Park and dinner near the town square
  • Owner advantage: Proximity to two national parks, world-class winter sports and favorable Wyoming tax policies
  • When to be here: Winter for deep snow and summer for hiking and river access
  • Neighborhood focus: Teton Village for ski access and downtown Jackson for dining and culture
If you’re looking to buy a vacation home that has both privacy and adventure, Jackson Hole is hard to beat. The area acts as a cozy basecamp for Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. You get deep, dry snow in the winter that attracts skiers from across the globe, while the summers stay mild, which is perfect for exploring the Snake River. Because nearly 97% of the land in Teton County is federally protected or state-owned, the supply of private real estate is incredibly small. The scarcity creates a highly stable, resilient market where high-end homes are always in demand.Pacaso featured home Snow King is a sleek, contemporary home base right in the Town of Jackson, putting you steps away from local dining and the slopes. In Teton Village, Teton Sky offers a grand lodge experience with massive windows designed to give you a great view of the mountains right from your living room. For a bit more seclusion, Harvest Ridge has expansive views and a quiet, high-design that feels like a true Wyoming escape. 

9. Napa Valley, California

  • Vacation home category: Nature-filled destinations
  • Signature day: A sunrise hot air balloon ride over the mist, followed by a Michelin-starred lunch in Yountville and a private cellar tasting
  • Owner advantage: Proximity to San Francisco, a world-class culinary scene and a strictly limited land supply that supports long-term value
  • When to be here: Cabernet Season in winter for cozy firesides and fewer crowds, or autumn to experience the energy of the harvest
  • Neighborhood focus: The quiet, elevated estates of Atlas Peak or the lush, private valleys near St. Helena
Napa Valley has a strong global reputation, making it one of the best places to invest in real estate. The region is a premier sanctuary for those who value fine wine, rolling landscapes and a slower pace of life. Its consistent Mediterranean weather offers owners warm, dry summers and mild winters, so the valley remains a top-tier destination year-round.The list of things to do in Napa is endless, ranging from exploring the Oxbow Public Market to hiking through the redwood groves of Bothe-Napa Valley State Park. Strict local regulations protect the valley’s natural beauty and limit new construction, which drives up property values over time. Pacaso’s Infinite Road listing has an expansive feel with incredible valley views, while the Arterra listing acts as a sleek, modern hilltop escape on Atlas Peak. For those who want to be closer to the action, The Palm and The Grove give owners a refined home base just minutes from the city’s best tasting rooms.These properties have professional-grade kitchens and outdoor living areas designed specifically for entertaining. Because Pacaso handles property management, you can spend your time visiting your favorite wineries instead of worrying about landscaping or home maintenance.

10. Paris, France

  • Vacation home category: International destinations
  • Signature day: Museum visits and designer shopping, capped by a three-course evening within steps of home 
  • Owner advantage: A world-renowned cultural footprint and effortless regional connectivity via Eurostar and TGV networks 
  • When to be here: March to June for spring culture, September to December for fashion and fêtes 
  • Neighborhood focus: 7th for classic elegance, 8th for grand avenues and Saint-Germain for café life 
Left Bank mornings along the Seine, gallery afternoons in the 7th and 8th, and destination dining that never goes out of style. Paris rewards owners with walkable neighborhoods, rich arts and effortless access to wider Europe. For buyers focused on properties abroad, Paris brings heritage architecture paired with modern conveniences. The city features beautiful, distinct seasons, with crisp, bright autumns and mild springs perfect for exploring historic streets. Real estate in the French capital remains incredibly stable, acting as a reliable asset in a globally coveted market.Pacaso’s Rue du Bac listing sits on the Bel Étage of an 18th-century building in the 7th, placing you near galleries, boutiques and riverside strolls. The beamed ceilings, stone fireplace and bright reception space set the tone for elegant Left Bank living in Paris.The Saint Germain residence puts you right in the center of iconic café life on the Left Bank. Each home serves as a perfect European base to enjoy the city's culture, food and charm.

11. London, England

  • Vacation home category: International destinations
  • Signature day: Gallery visits, afternoon tea, West End show and a late dinner in Soho
  • Owner advantage: Direct flights to every major hub and effortless car service access
  • When to be here: Spring for the social calendar, December for festive lights
  • Neighborhood focus: Chelsea for village charm, Mayfair for art and retail, Marylebone for calm
London blends global finance and world-class culture in one lively city. From Chelsea townhouses to Mayfair galleries, you can easily shift from morning meetings to Michelin-starred dining within minutes. For owners looking for a second home abroad, London brings an unmatched network effect for business and leisure in any season.The city features mild, distinct seasons, making it comfortable to explore historic landmarks and expansive royal parks year-round. The local real estate market remains incredibly stable, serving as a global safe haven for luxury buyers seeking both long-term value and immediate lifestyle benefits. Considering a base here gives you unparalleled access to Europe and beyond, while enjoying the rich heritage of the British capital.Pacaso’s Chelsea Gardens listing sits moments from King’s Road, featuring light-filled living spaces and a private outdoor sanctuary. This makes it an ideal base between gallery visits and dinners in Sloane Square, with evenings along the Thames from Westminster to Knightsbridge within easy reach.For those drawn to the prestigious Mayfair district, the King Yard Penthouse delivers a highly refined, central location near world-class retail and art. Alternatively, the Pacaso’s Charles Street residence puts you right in the heart of classic London luxury. Each of these homes stands as a perennial choice for buyers seeking culture, privacy and seamless access to the very best of the city.

12. Tuscany, Italy

  • Vacation home category: International destinations
  • Signature day: Espresso in a sun-drenched piazza, a visit to the Uffizi and a long sunset dinner in the hills 
  • Owner advantage: High demand for luxury rentals, strict historic preservation and world-class culinary access 
  • When to be here: Late spring for blooming hills or autumn for the olive and grape harvests 
  • Neighborhood focus: The historic heart of Florence for culture or the rolling Chianti countryside for seclusion 
Tuscany has a timeless appeal that makes it a top choice for a vacation property. It acts as an Italian cultural hub where art and history meet, giving owners a lifestyle that is both relaxed and deeply enriching. Many consider the region one of the best for international family vacations because it has something for everyone, from world-class museums to rolling vineyard landscapes.The local market has a high demand for historic residences updated to modern luxury standards. Florence, in particular, acts as a stable market because its architectural heritage and global tourism keep property values very resilient. The weather gives you warm, golden summers and crisp, beautiful winters, making it a great year-round escape. 

13. Madrid, Spain

  • Vacation home category: International destinations
  • Signature day: A morning stroll through Buen Retiro Park, an afternoon touring the Prado Museum and late-night tapas in La Latina
  • Owner advantage: Walkable historic districts, a world-class culinary scene and effortless high-speed rail access to the rest of Spain
  • When to be here: Spring and fall for comfortable exploring, avoiding the intense summer heat
  • Neighborhood focus: The upscale boutiques of Salamanca and the historic charm of Chamberí
Madrid has a lively mix of historic architecture and modern urban energy. The city has many notable attractions, like the Royal Palace, world-renowned art galleries and a culinary scene that never sleeps. The pleasant spring and autumn weather make it a great European base year-round.The local real estate market has been strong as international buyers increasingly seek properties in the Spanish capital. The city’s blend of heritage, lifestyle and connectivity makes Madrid one of the best places to invest in a vacation home abroad.

14. French Alps, France

  • Vacation home category: International destinations
  • Signature day: Skiing fresh alpine powder, enjoying a fondue lunch on the mountain and relaxing by a crackling fire
  • Owner advantage: World-renowned ski slopes, breathtaking mountain views and easy access from the Geneva airport
  • When to be here: December to April for winter sports and July to September for hiking and alpine sunshine
  • Neighborhood focus: Chamonix for thrilling alpine adventures and historic mountain culture
The French Alps are a top choice for anyone looking to buy a vacation home with true year-round appeal. The region has heavy winter snowfall for incredible skiing at iconic spots like Mont Blanc, followed by bright, mild summers perfect for hiking and mountain biking.Each home acts as an idyllic, warm retreat where you can completely unwind after an active day on the slopes.The French Alps continue to see a significant tightening of available inventory, as constant global demand for luxury chalets consistently outpaces new listings. This scarcity has turned the local real estate market into a highly competitive environment, where the limited number of homes on the market reinforces the region’s status as a reliable, high-security move. 

15. Los Cabos, Mexico

  • Vacation home category: International destinations
  • Signature day: A morning round of golf on a desert-lined course, followed by whale watching at Land’s End and dinner in the San Jose Arts District
  • Owner advantage: Short direct flights from major U.S. hubs, world-class resort infrastructure and a favorable climate for year-round visits
  • When to be here: November to May for pristine weather and the peak of the whale migration
  • Neighborhood focus: The San Jose Corridor for its quiet luxury and beachfront estates
Los Cabos has a unique landscape where the desert meets the sea, giving owners a vacation experience unlike any other. The region is a high-end playground with championship golf courses and swimmable beaches that attract visitors from around the globe. It has a dry, sunny climate for most of the year, making it a good choice for a vacation home away from the rain.The local real estate market stays incredibly strong, driven by high demand from international buyers seeking a reliable coastal retreat close to the US. The area's consistent popularity makes it a smart choice for long-term value.Pacaso featured listings give you a front-row seat to the best of Baja. Playa Linda and Casa Miel have stunning designs that blend modern luxury with traditional Mexican architecture. In the exclusive Palmilla area, both Palmilla and Casa Bella are private sanctuaries with expansive ocean views and chef-grade kitchens.

Choosing where to buy a vacation home

Figuring out where to buy a vacation home starts with pinpointing exactly what you want out of your second property. Keeping a few key lifestyle factors in mind helps you narrow down the map and find a retreat that truly fits your needs. Consider these essential elements before making your decision:
  • Travel radius: A home within a short drive or a direct flight makes weekend getaways much easier to pull off. Keeping your travel time brief gives you more opportunities to actually use the property throughout the year.
  • Weather: Think about whether you want a year-round sunny escape or a destination that has snowy winters and mild summers. Matching the local climate to your favorite outdoor activities ensures you get the most out of your surroundings.
  • Ownership model: Exploring co-ownership property is a great step if you want the luxury of a second home without the full-time maintenance. Co-ownership with Pacaso gives you a true real estate asset while splitting the costs and upkeep with other owners.

Explore the best places to buy a vacation home with Pacaso

Finding the right destination is just the first step in making your second-home dreams a reality. When you are ready to explore the best places to buy a vacation home, you can easily browse our luxury listings to see exactly what fits your lifestyle.

Best places to buy a vacation home FAQs

01: Does Pacaso have listings in Europe?

Pacaso has a big presence in Europe, with luxury homes located in major cultural hubs like London and Paris.

02: Where in the United States does Pacaso have listings?

Pacaso has listings in many of the most sought-after states, including California, Florida, Colorado, Wyoming, Arizona and South Carolina.

03: Does Pacaso have listings in Mexico?

Yes, Pacaso has several luxury listings in Mexico, specifically in the beautiful Los Cabos region. These homes are located in exclusive areas like the San Jose Corridor and Palmilla.

04: Where is the best place to own a vacation home?

The best place to buy a vacation home is one you enjoy and that serves as a stable, long-term asset. Whether you prefer the mountains or the beach, the ideal spot has to have a climate you love and activities that keep you coming back year after year. It also has to fit your travel preferences, ideally sitting within a short flight or drive from your primary residence.

05: Where are the best places to invest in real estate?

The best places to invest in real estate are high-demand markets like Aspen, Napa Valley and Jackson Hole. These locations have limited land and world-class prestige, which gives them a high level of resilience.

06: How do I buy a vacation home?

Knowing how to buy a vacation home starts with exploring co-ownership, which gives you a luxury property for a fraction of the cost. Pacaso manages the entire purchase process and handles the ongoing care, making it easy for you to step right into the vacation lifestyle. This model has all the benefits of ownership without the stress of managing a second property on your own.

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